You deserve a smile you feel proud to share with the world. Veneers are a popular way to improve your smile, and it’s easy to see why. They can cover up cracks, chips, or stains and give you a beautiful, bright smile.
If you’re thinking about getting dental veneers, it’s important to know where to go for the best and safest results. While some people may be tempted to choose a veneer technician (also known as a veneer tech) for their procedure, this can come with serious risks. Here’s what you need to know before deciding who to trust with your smile.
What Are Veneer Techs?
Veneer technicians are people who claim to be skilled at applying veneers but are not licensed dentists. While they might say they have training in placing veneers, they don’t have the same education, certifications, or experience that a dentist has.
Licensed cosmetic dentists spend years in dental school and training to safely and effectively perform cosmetic and restorative dental procedures. On the other hand, veneer techs often do not have these qualifications, which can put your oral health at risk.
Some people may choose veneer techs because they think it will be cheaper or more convenient. But before you decide, it’s important to understand what you could be risking by not going to a licensed dentist.
Veneer Techs vs. Cosmetic Dentists: Who Should You Trust?
Veneer techs have become popular on social media with promises to completely rejuvenate your smile at a fraction of the cost of seeing a licensed dentist. For people who may not otherwise have the means to pay for cosmetic dentistry, or who are looking for a fast and convenient alternative, their promises can be very appealing.
However, it’s important to understand exactly what you’re getting (and what you’re not getting) with a veneer technician versus a cosmetic dentist.
- Veneer Techs Don’t Have the Formal Education of a Dentist.
Dental veneers aren’t just about making your smile look good. They need to be properly crafted to stand up to complex forces involved in biting and chewing. Cosmetic dentists understand the physics involved, as well as the intricate anatomy of the teeth and gums.
Without the right training and education, veneer techs are likely to miss major issues such as oral health issues that need to be addressed before creating your veneer teeth. They’re also more likely to make mistakes during your procedure.
- You’re More at Risk for Long-Term Oral Health Problems with a Tech.
Choosing a veneer tech over a licensed dentist might seem like a good idea at first, especially when your budget is tight. However, if it’s not done correctly, getting veneers can do permanent damage to your oral health.
Preparing your teeth for veneers involves shaving away some of your enamel to make space for the restorations. When veneers are poorly fitted or placed incorrectly, they can leave gaps where food and bacteria can get trapped or interfere with your bite.
This is a permanent change to the shape of your teeth that can put you at risk for damage to the nerves of the teeth, tooth decay, sensitivity, and even tooth loss. Over time, this can leave your smile at serious risk and end up costing you thousands in expensive repairs.
- Veneer Techs Don’t Follow the Same Strict Standards as Dentists.
To keep their license to practice, dentists must adhere to strict standards for cleanliness and disease control. Not only do they need to properly clean and sterilize every instrument and surface between patients. They also need to regularly test their sterilization equipment to be sure it’s functioning properly and fully killing any potential pathogens.
Because veneer techs don’t have the same level of oversight or regulations over their practices, there is the potential that they may not sterilize their equipment properly. This leaves you at risk for exposure to serious pathogens that can put your overall health at risk, and increase the potential for infections following your procedure.
- Cosmetic Dentists Have Advanced Equipment Veneer Techs Don’t.
Licensed, qualified cosmetic dentists have access to advanced professional equipment and techniques that ensure you get the best possible result, custom-crafted for your unique smile. These advanced diagnostic scanners, digital x-rays, and digital design programs enable a cosmetic dentist to create your veneers with precision. They also make the process much more comfortable for you!
- A Cosmetic Dentist Will Stay With You Long-Term.
After your veneers are placed, follow-up care is critical to make sure a successful result. While veneers are considered a permanent procedure, they need upkeep and occasional replacements over time.
A licensed dentist can monitor things as your teeth and gums adjust to your veneers to ensure you don’t develop issues like tooth sensitivity or inflamed gums and provide support to protect your smile long-term. Veneer techs, on the other hand, may not offer any kind of follow-up, and can’t provide care for issues such as an unusual reaction in the gums. Which means you’ll be on your own if problems come up.
Red Flags to Avoid When Shopping for Dental Veneers
When considering where to get your veneers, keep an eye out for these warning signs:
Suspiciously Low Prices
If the price of veneers seems too good to be true, it probably is. Low prices can mean that cheap materials are being used or that the person doing the work isn’t properly trained. Investing in a qualified dentist may cost more upfront, but it can save you money and trouble in the long run.
No Proof of Licensing
Always make sure that the person placing your veneers is a licensed dentist. If they can’t show proof of their license or qualifications, it’s best to look elsewhere.
Lack of Reviews or References
Check for verified reviews or recommendations from past patients. A reputable dentist will have plenty of happy patients who can vouch for their work. If you can’t find any reviews for a veneer tech or their reviews seem questionable, that’s a red flag.
Imagine Dentistry Is Here to Make Your Dream Smile a Reality with Quality Dental Veneers You Can Trust
At Imagine Dentistry, we’re here to answer your questions and guide you through the veneer process. Our goal is to make sure you understand every step of the procedure and feel confident in your care.
We’ll also stick with you long-term to provide aftercare and support so you can keep loving your smile for life. If you’re considering veneers or have questions about any cosmetic dental treatment, reach out to us to schedule a consultation. Your smile deserves the best, and we’re here to make sure you get it!
